Cardiologist clarifies what you should know before taking ibuprofen before exercise: "Many people take it as if it were harmless, but it isn't."

Frequent use of ibuprofen without medical supervision can put cardiovascular and kidney health at risk, especially if taken before intense exercise. This was stated by cardiologist Aurelio Rojas in a video posted on his TikTok account (@doctorrojass), in which he addresses the necessary precautions when using this medication.

"Don't take ibuprofen without first knowing this," warns the specialist, emphasizing that, although it's commonly used by many people, its use is not harmless. Rojas points out that this nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), derived from propionic acid, should be administered only when absolutely necessary and not out of habit , since indiscriminate use can lead to serious complications.

Ibuprofen has anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antipyretic properties , making it one of the most sold and consumed medications.

Another risk group identified by the doctor is people with high blood pressure . He explains that ibuprofen "can reduce the effect of your blood pressure medications, so always consult your doctor."

At the same time, he emphasizes the importance of proper hydration when taking this type of medication , as its action can affect kidney function. "These types of drugs can affect your kidneys, and if you're dehydrated, your blood pressure can rise even more," he says. For this reason, in addition to drinking plenty of water, he recommends avoiding excessive alcohol and salt consumption during treatment with ibuprofen, since "both increase fluid retention and cause your blood vessels to constrict even more."

@doctorrojass THE DANGER OF IBUPROFEN Many people take it as if it were harmless... but it is not. 👉 If you use it often for headaches, period pain, back pain, or stress... this is of interest to you. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen have significant risks, especially if: ❌ You have hypertension ❌ You take other medications ❌ You are dehydrated ❌ You exercise intensely after taking it. How to reduce these risks? ✅ Use it only when necessary ✅ Hydration, rest, and no alcohol or excess salt ✅ Low dose and for a few days ✅ Look for natural alternatives that do not harm your cardiovascular health: – Turmeric and ginger – Magnesium – Local cold or heat – Conscious breathing and physiotherapy 💬 Are you one of those who takes it without thinking? Tell me in the comments. 🔁 Share this video: Someone you know may be putting themselves at risk without knowing it. 📌 Save this content to take better care of yourself, every day #ibuprofen #pain #sports ♬ original sound - Aurelio Rojas Sánchez

As an alternative to this medication, Rojas suggests consulting with your doctor about the possibility of using paracetamol (as long as there are no contraindications) or natural methods such as rest, applying cold or heat, physical therapy, and deep breathing.

He also mentions natural anti-inflammatories such as turmeric with black pepper or ginger . In all cases, the specialist insists on avoiding self-medication and opting for a responsible, professionally guided approach.

Finally, if after evaluating the available options you decide to use ibuprofen, the cardiologist advises doing so "at the lowest dose and for the shortest possible time." He concludes with a categorical recommendation: "Never use more than three consecutive days without medical supervision."

*This content was written with the assistance of artificial intelligence, based on publicly available information released to media outlets. It was also reviewed by the journalist and an editor.